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Day after frustrating loss, Hamels remains quiet

5/20/13: Cole Hamels strikes out 10 Marlins over six innings while allowing just two runs on seven hits

By Todd Zolecki
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MLB.com |

MIAMI -- It will take much more than a penny for Cole Hamels' thoughts.

Hamels signed a six-year, $144 million contract extension last summer, so he certainly doesn't need the money. He declined for a second day to discuss his frustrations following Monday's 5-1 loss to the Marlins at Marlins Park. He pitched well. He allowed seven hits, two runs and struck out 10 in six innings, but once again, the Phillies' offense offered no help.

Hamels left the clubhouse Monday without a word. He maintained his silence Tuesday.

"I think that's been relayed" to a team spokesman, Hamels said, without lifting up his head to look at a reporter.

Philadelphia pitching coach Rich Dubee opined Hamels is upset because the team is 1-9 in his starts and he is putting pressure on himself to perform. But couldn't the lefty be sending a subtle message to an offense that has been held to three or fewer runs in 25 of 45 games this season? Hamels has a 2.87 run support average, which ranks 101st out of 107 qualifying pitchers.

"I don't think so," manager Charlie Manuel said. "I think he was more upset because we didn't win and he pitched good. He pitched very good. I'm sure it's confusing to him when he pitches like he did [Monday] night and it's hard for him to win. That's the competitor in him, that's the part that was upset. Probably thought it was best that he didn't talk to you."

Incredibly, Hamels has not thrown a pitch with a lead since April 7.

"That's amazing," Manuel said.

And incredibly frustrating.

Todd Zolecki is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.